1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne in Melbourne
Melbourne, Australia

1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne

Outty Ranking 78 4.7 · 260 traveler reviews8.5 hoursFrom $161

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September 2026

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Adults

Age 13 and over

2

Children

Age 12 and under

0

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From, per person$161
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Outty Ranking

78/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.7/5

Based on 260 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is 1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne worth booking?

1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne is a 8.5-hour experience in Melbourne, Australia, from $161 per person. It scores 78 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 260 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
78 / 100
Rating
4.7/5 (260)
Duration
8.5 hours
From
$161 per person

Step back in time with our exceptional offering: a captivating expedition through the Dandenong Ranges via the iconic Puffing Billy steam train. Envelop yourself in the enchanting rainforest, relishing panoramic views an

What you get

    About this experience

    Step back in time with our exceptional offering: a captivating expedition through the Dandenong Ranges via the iconic Puffing Billy steam train. Envelop yourself in the enchanting rainforest, relishing panoramic views and invigorating air as the historic locomotive winds through a one-hour odyssey from Belgrave to Lakeside. But that's not all – post-ride, immerse yourself in an intimate wildlife sanctuary rendezvous. Interact firsthand with Australia's treasured fauna, from cuddly koalas to bounding kangaroos and majestic raptors. Elevate your journey beyond ordinary sightseeing; embrace history, nature, and cherished encounters all in one extraordinary experience.

    What's included

    Included

    • 1 hour train journey on Puffing Billy Steam Train
    • All Fees and Taxes
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Entry into Wildlife Park

    Not included

    • Lunch
    • Tea and coffee

    What you'll see and do

    1. Grants Picnic Ground

      Pause for a delightful break at Grants Picnic Reserve in Sherbrooke Forest. Wander amid majestic Mountain Ash, & lush fern gullies. Encounter vivid rosellas, galahs, cockatoos, and perhaps a lyrebird.

      20 minutes here

    2. Puffing Billy Railway

      Enjoy a 1-hour steam train journey on Puffing Billy through lush rainforests, embracing the time-honored tradition of dangling your legs out of the train.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    3. Wander through the new Lakeside Visitor Centre, a cultural hub with top-notch facilities, and grab a bite to eat (own expense) at the modern cafe.

      45 minutes here

    4. Healesville Sanctuary

      Encounter the fascinating Australian wildlife up close and personal at Healesville Sanctuary Wildlife Park

      90 minutes here · Admission included

    5. Yarra Valley

      Scenic drive through the Yarra Valley from Lakeside to Healesville Sanctuary.

      60 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 45 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    ar, hi, de, vi, ko, pt, cmn, ja, en, it, fr, nl, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 10 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Explore Australia Tours

    Know before you go

    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne in Melbourne, photo 21 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne in Melbourne, photo 31 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne in Melbourne, photo 41 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne in Melbourne, photo 51 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne in Melbourne, photo 6

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 260 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    10 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    3 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    3 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Organization

    3 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Traveler reviews

    260 verified traveler reviews for 1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    215
    4 star
    31
    3 star
    5
    2 star
    5
    1 star
    4
    Sort
    Jesus_A · August 2026

    It's a must do once your...

    It's a must do once your in Melbourne. Grate experience... definitely will recommend this tour, the tour guide the best 👌.

    via Viator

    Margaret_G · August 2026

    Hugely enjoyabe

    Anthony was a superb guide. The pick up points were easy to locate and everything was clearly explained. The day ran smoothly and was hugely enjoyable. The music playlist was top notch.

    via Viator

    U7676GDnickg · August 2026

    What a day!

    Outstanding day trip from Melbourne. The zoo was great, with plenty of native wildlife on show, and to be up close watching a lyre bird in full display was truly memorable. The bird show was also exceptional, and a platypus swimming about just topped things off. Puffing Bllly was well organised and beautifully scenic, as well as authentic and nostalgic in equal measure. Our guide Anthony was a delight from start to finish and gave clear explanations throughout as well as driving with care and ensuring everyone had the best experience - thank you!

    via Tripadvisor

    T874DOmargaretg · August 2026

    A memorable trip

    We had an excellent day even with mixed weather. Anthony was a superb guide - informative, friendly and professional. The wildlife tour was really special and we saw an incredible bird show. Puffing Billy train ride combined a step back to another century with superb views of the forests and local area.

    via Tripadvisor

    ALYMA2013 · August 2026

    Best Tour Guide in Melbourne.

    Great Melbourne Tour..Mr Anthony is kind..friendly..loves to joke wth us.

    Response from the operator: What a fantastic review of your Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne! 😊 Anthony is truly a gem, always ready with a joke and a smile. He will be delighted to hear your kind words. Thank you for taking the time to share this with us. We are so pleased you had a great time exploring the city. Cheers and happy travels! 🚐🌆

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    8.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $161 to $219
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    91
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Why this scores 78

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)79
    Review evidence (18% weight)76
    Booking momentum (14% weight)72
    Value for money (12% weight)92
    Listing quality (10% weight)77
    Local standing (8% weight)47
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Melbourne.

    How much does 1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne cost?

    +

    Prices start at $161 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Melbourne usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does 1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne take?

    +

    Plan for about 8.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Melbourne is not rushed.

    Is 1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 78 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 260 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Melbourne, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule 1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is 1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book 1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne?

    +

    Around 91 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Melbourne can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Melbourne and add a light layer if any part of the 8.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does 1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Melbourne within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Melbourne?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Melbourne experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Melbourne: Yarra Valley Wine, Gin, Whisky and Chocolate Tour, Yarra Valley Wine Tour w Exclusive Gin, Cider & Chocolate Tasting, Yarra Valley Wine Tour from Melbourne - Choc, Gin & Good Times. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Melbourne?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Melbourne?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

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